Saturday, February 13, 2010

Inspiration, Motivation and Dedication

I am dedicating this post to Nodar Kumaritashvili, the Georgian luge athlete who was tragically killed during a training run yesterday at the Vancouver Winter Games. I am sure that most of you have heard about or seen the accident during the opening ceremonies last night. I was deeply saddened after hearing the news. I give my sincerest heartfelt condolences to his team mates, family and friends. I am glad the Georgian team has chosen to stay and participate in the games, honoring their friend Nodar. It certainly goes without saying that there has been a shadow cast over the games. Even so, in the true spirit of competition these athletes will push themselves in ways they never realized or thought possible. In fact it has already begun.

Some of you may wonder why I have chosen to write this post, when it strays seemingly quite a distance from the blog title of Women's Hunting Journal. Well, let me say that my life before I reached 30 was dedicated to becoming an Olympian. While I never did make the U.S. Ski Team that was my goal and ultimately the Olympics. I chose to to forgo much of the social life of the typical teenager for the pursuit of my passion for ski racing. For me I didn't feel as though I missed or gave up any part of being a kid while chasing my athletic dreams. That was my choice and I loved everything about it, even the not so good days. There is a satisfaction and pride within ones self that is a result of being dedicated in doing the work to attain such lofty goals. While injuries prevented me from reaching my ski racing goals the desire and passion from those years has continued to serve me well throughout my life. The basic building blocks of character which is proudly displayed on all the faces of our young Olympians is, for me a source of great pride and inspiration.

Perhaps you've noticed yourself or friends giving that extra bit of effort at work recently. Or you are working out with more enthusiasm and dedication. Well, me too and I plan to continue to draw upon the Olympics for that extra nudge to continue with more focus and attitude. Soon Spring Goose season will start and then comes Bear hunting. I am fortunate to be healthy and not nursing a torn knee ligament like last year at this time. Provided I draw a Spring Bear tag I will be eager and ready to get after it!

The percentage of individuals who can call themselves Olympians is quite small, this is why the prize is of enormous proportions. Equally are the efforts put forth by these young Olympians. You'll never find a better opportunity(in my opinion) for inspiration and motivation than watching these amazing athletes. I will be glued to the TV and other media sources during the next 16 days, especially for the Alpine Skiing events. I will also be glued to my bike on my indoor trainer as well. Enjoy the games everyone and say a prayer for the safety of the athletes, coaches, trainers and especially the family, friends and members of the Georgian Luge Team.

Women's Hunting Journal Integrity For The Hunt

10 comments:

Karen Thomason/Gordon Setter Crossing said...

It is terribly sad to see a young life come to such a tragic end, as with Nodar Kumaritashvili. Your post is a nice tribute.

gary said...

That was tragic - tough way to start the Olympics off. I'm sure it'll stay in the back of each ones mind that participates.

Do you still ski? or has the past injuries kept you from it? What a life change after putting so much into something and then having to walk away. Gotta be tough.

Terry Scoville said...

Thank you Karen.

Gary, no doubt this tragedy will be with all the athletes, such a sad way to start an Olympics.
I do ski every so often but, it has gotten very expensive and honestly my priorities have changed. It was a tough transition, getting out competition to re invent myself. Certainly an aspect an athletes life that is not discussed much and honestly one that I am glad to only have to do once.

Jennifer Montero said...

Terry, I'm not even surprised to find out that you were an olympian-in-training. Your posts belie a strong sense of self-discipline, and focus when it comes to your hunting. What a nice tribute too.

Fingers crossed that you pull a spring bear ticket!

Eastern Shore Outdoors said...

Terry..we all have greatness in us, in different ways that we proceed through life. Thank you for this post in recognition of those who should inspire us not only during the next two weeks but for the years that they put in to get to this point..All the Best...Phil

Terry Scoville said...

Jennifer,
Thanks for your comments and keeping your fingers crossed.

prpark,
you're welcome and I agree fully!

Barbara Baird said...

Terry,
Thank you for your heartfelt post and for reminding us of the fragility of life. Also, that if we truly want to relish the outdoor experience, we need to be taking care of our temples ... our bodies.
Babbs

Terry Scoville said...

Babbs,
You're welcome and what keeps me working out is that I want to be in the field hunting for as long as possible. The phrase, "use it or lose it" becomes more evident with time. It's good to invest in ones self!

SimplyOutdoors said...

Their skill and dedication is definitely incredible and utterly amazing.

I wish all of the athletes the best.

And their dedication and commitment, when applied to any of life's challenges, can produce amazing results.

EcoRover said...

Great post, and good on ya for recognizing the hard work -- and risk -- that goes with competition at this level.

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